SPRINGBOARD ENTERPRISES: ADDRESSING THE GENDER GAP IN THE VENTURE WORLD

SPRINGBOARD INCREASES WOMEN’S ACCESS TO HUMAN AND FINANCIAL CAPITAL THROUGH A NETWORK OF INNOVATORS, INVESTORS AND INFLUENCERS DEDICATED TO ENHANCE WOMEN TECH-COMPANIES

What Big Bet are they making?

Springboard Enterprises is a highly-vetted expert network of innovators, investors and influencers who are dedicated to building high-growth technology-oriented companies led by women. Springboard initially started as a forum for women-led companies looking for equity financing, but they realized that many participants lacked the requisite skills and confidence to attract investors. In response, they created a program that offers women entrepreneurs a personal advisory network, workshops, and access to potential strategic partners. Springboard focuses on building long-term relationships with their alumnae, cultivating a global network of seasoned entrepreneurial women that now numbers 661 after 17 years.

What challenge is the Big Bet solving?

Springboard is addressing the gender gap in the venture world by increasing women’s access to the human and financial capital they need to scale. While numbers show that women are becoming increasingly successful in obtaining equity financing, the percentage of women-led companies securing equity capital is still very low.

How is the Big Bet innovative?

At their launch in 2000, Springboard was one of the first programs to focus on high-growth, womenled
technology companies. Springboard remains unique in their approach with its strong focus on the entrepreneur rather than the company – they address the specific barriers women face, internally and externally, within the broader business environment.

What is the current situation?

The 661 women-led companies participating in Springboard’s Innovation Hub programs have
collectively raised 7.5 billion USD, including 14 IPOs (Initial Public Offering). 80% of participants are still in business as independent or merged entities. In 2013, Springboard began doing programs in Australia, guiding over 35 startups to date, and has explored new markets through theme-specific programs in healthcare, life sciences, fashion/retail technology, and other technology areas like media tech and fintech.